Premier League — 14 January 2013

Edin Dzeko played a key part in Manchester City's 2-0 win at ArsenalYesterday’s Premier League games produced a host of goals and a number of controversial moments.

In the early kick-off at Old Trafford Manchester United defeated Liverpool 2-1. The home side took the lead on 19 minutes.

A superb team move ended with Robin Van Persie sweeping the ball past Pepe Reina with a one-touch finish inside the penalty area from a low cross from full-back Patrice Evra. United nearly doubled their lead just before the break.

Robin Van Persie flicked a Rafael cross towards goal, only for Martin Skrtel to clear off the line and Andre Wisdom to clear the ball before Shinji Kagawa could score from the rebound, the Japanese playmaker colliding with Reina.

United were two goals up in the 53rd minute. Robin van Persie swung in a superb free-kick which Patrice Evra headed towards goal, only for the ball to hit teammate Nemanja Vidic and beat Reina in the visitor’s goal.

Liverpool got a goal back in the 57th minute. Steven Gerrard’s long-range effort was palmed out by David de Gea and substitute Daniel Sturridge scored with the rebound. Liverpool pushed for an equaliser, but United held on to go ten points clear at the top of the Premier League table.

The point’s deficit was cut to seven by Manchester City winning 2-0 in controversial style at Arsenal. City were handed a huge advantage in the tenth minute, as French defender Laurent Koscielny was dismissed for pulling back Edin Dzeko in the penalty area.

The Bosnian took the penalty himself, Wojciech Szczesny saved the striker’s penalty with his legs, and then the ball hit the post and rolled back into Szczesny’s arms. City did go ahead in the 20th minute though, James Milner firing home a powerful effort from 12 yards.

City doubled their lead in the 31st minute. Carlos Tevez’s effort from Pablo Zabaleta’s cross was saved by Szczesny, but Dzeko was on hand to score a tap-in with the rebound. Arsenal got more into the game in the second half and City captain Vincent Kompany was dismissed in the 75th minute for a reckless tackle on Jack Wilshere.

Despite Arsenal coming into the game they couldn’t find a way past Joe Hart. The three points were vital for Manchester City in their quest to keep in touch with Manchester United at the top of the Premier League table.

Did Manchester City deserve to beat Arsenal?

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David Nugent

David is a 29 year-old football fan and journalist, who is passionate about the beautiful game. He is a lifelong supporter of Premier League Everton and likes nothing better than a healthy discussion about the world's favourite sport.

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